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Public Safety · Michigan

How to Become a Security Guards in Michigan

Security Guards in Michigan earn a median salary of $38,120/year, which is 1% below the national average. Michigan has a state income tax of ~4.2%. After taxes and rent, a security guards takes home approximately $1,175/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$38K
Median salary in Michigan
-1%
vs. national average
4.2%
State income tax
25,760
Employed in Michigan

What a security guards can afford in Michigan

Gross annual salary$38,120
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.2% state tax)$2,587/mo
Median 2BR rent (Michigan)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home54.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$38,120/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,175/mo

Becoming a security guards in Michigan

1

Meet education requirements

Security Guards positions in Michigan typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Michigan. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many security guards positions in Michigan require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Michigan licensure or certification

Michigan may require specific licensing or professional certification for security guardss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Michigan Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Michigan

Michigan employs 25,760 security guards. The highest concentrations are in Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood.

Security Guards salary by metro area in Michigan

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Ann Arbor$48K$22.92/hr760
Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood$44K$21.1/hr2,910
Saginaw$41K$19.61/hr220
Monroe$40K$19.42/hr420
Battle Creek$40K$19.35/hr300
Midland$40K$19.2/hr110
Jackson$39K$18.86/hr190
Traverse City$39K$18.51/hr180
Detroit-Warren-Dearborn$38K$18.36/hr12,900
Niles$37K$17.83/hr810
Lansing-East Lansing$36K$17.42/hr630
Flint$36K$17.29/hr2,280
Kalamazoo-Portage$36K$17.07/hr490
Muskegon-Norton Shores$33K$15.99/hr130
Bay City$30K$14.5/hr60

Security Guards salary range in Michigan

10th percentile (entry)
$28K
25th percentile
$31K
Median (50th)
$38K
75th percentile
$48K
90th percentile (senior)
$55K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a security guards make in Michigan?

The median security guards salary in Michigan is $38,120 per year ($18.33/hr). This is 1% below the national median of $38,370. Salaries range from $27,970 to $54,600.

What are the requirements to become a security guards in Michigan?

Security Guards positions in Michigan typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Michigan may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Michigan licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a security guards afford to live in Michigan?

At the median salary of $38,120, a security guards in Michigan would take home approximately $2,587/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 54.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for security guards in Michigan?

The highest paying metro areas for security guards in Michigan are Ann Arbor ($47,680), Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood ($43,890), Saginaw ($40,790). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Michigan have state income tax for security guards?

Yes, Michigan has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.2%. On a $38,120 salary, this means roughly $1,620/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.